Toyota argues that for countries like Australia, embracing hybrid vehicles may be more practical than battery electric vehicles (BEVs) due to the current energy production landscape heavily dependent on coal.
Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia’s vice president of sales and marketing, emphasised in discussions with the Australian press that the logical preference for EVs in nations with advanced renewable energy infrastructure doesn’t align with Australia’s present situation.
He noted that battery electric vehicles (BEVs), including the upcoming bZ4X, are crucial for reducing carbon emissions and are particularly viable in regions like Norway with predominant renewable energy sources and higher income levels. However, he stressed that Australia’s context is different from Europe’s.
Highlighting the dependence on fossil fuels for electricity in many Australian states and other countries like China, Hanley referenced that fossil fuels were responsible for 68% of Australia’s total electricity generation in the previous year, a figure subject to regional variation.
Toyota points out an efficiency ratio they refer to as the 1-6-90 rule, explaining that the raw materials used for a single BEV battery could produce six plug-in hybrids or an astonishing 90 conventional hybrids (such as the Camry Hybrid). This approach allows the reduction of emissions from 90 vehicles instead of concentrating on one BEV, which might still rely on coal-powered electricity and remain inaccessible for most Australian drivers.
The company emphasises assessing each market in its entirety, proposing solutions suitable for the specific circumstances, lifestyles, energy sources, and vehicle usage in different countries.
Hanley asserts that hybrids are currently more suitable for Australia than BEVs due to their affordability, lack of dependence on charging infrastructure, and widespread adoption, citing the sale of 23 million units globally and 350,000 in Australia alone.
Despite its advocacy for hybrid technology, Toyota is preparing to introduce its first BEV, the bZ4X, in Australia. Hanley clarifies that Toyota isn’t suggesting hybrids as a permanent alternative to BEVs but recognises the importance of evolving with electric vehicle technology.
Acknowledging the inevitable rise of BEVs, he revealed Toyota’s ambitious plan to manufacture 3.5 million BEVs annually by 2030. By 2026, Toyota anticipates a significant shift with a new BEV platform and intends to offer at least 10 fully electric models.
The reveal of the updated bZ4X is scheduled for the Tokyo motor show, with plans for its debut in Australia by February of the following year, marking the commencement of the company’s enhanced electrification efforts.
For the latest retailer news and information, check out the ServoPro website or to speak to us about how we can help your business contact us.